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Gary Reinl

Gary Reinl has spent nearly forty years in the sports-medicine field, with diverse experiences ranging from training professional athletes to pioneering the field of strength-building for women during the pregnancy year to developing rehabilitation programs for injured workers.

Additionally, his ground-breaking senior strength-building protocol has now been implemented in more than 1,000 senior living facilities. Gary has authored two previous books, Making Mama Fit [Leisure Press, 1983] and the 2007 “fat loss” book Get Stronger, Feel Younger [Rodale Press].

Gary lives in Henderson, Nevada, with his wife, Susan. He has two grown children, Mandy and Casey, and three grandchildren, Harper, Hendrick, and Eleuthera.

• Introduction to the Episode and Guest 0:00
  • Dr. Barrett introduces the episode, mentioning it is a reprise from season one, featuring Gary Rienl.
  • The episode focuses on the acronym RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and its potential flaws.
  • Dr. Barrett praises Gary Rienl’s book “Iced: The Illusionary Treatment Option.”
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  • Gary Rienl is introduced as a former gym owner and sports medicine professional with a background in athletics.
• Gary Rienl’s Background and Transition to Sports Medicine 2:24
  • Gary Rienl discusses opening his gym in 1973 and his early involvement with athletes.
  • He explains his transition from working with athletes to focusing on muscle stimulation technology.
  • Gary’s curiosity about the RICE protocol led him to question its effectiveness and explore alternatives.
  • He highlights the limitations of the RICE protocol, particularly with ice application on musculoskeletal injuries.
• Critique of the RICE Protocol 5:02
  • Gary Rienl delves into the ineffectiveness of the RICE protocol, starting with the “R” for rest.
  • He argues that rest actually hinders healing by slowing lymphatic and vascular flow.
  • The “C” for compression is also criticized, as it can restrict blood flow necessary for healing.
  • The “E” for elevation is questioned, as it does not align with the passive lymphatic system’s function.
• Historical Context and Adoption of the RICE Protocol 1:00:47
  • Dr. Barrett and Gary Rienl discuss the historical adoption of the RICE protocol.
  • The protocol gained popularity after a significant event involving a severed arm in 1962.
  • Dr. Merkin’s 1978 sports medicine book formalized the RICE protocol, which was then widely accepted.

• • The protocol’s widespread use in sports medicine and among the general public is highlighted.
• Challenges and Resistance to Changing the RICE Protocol 1:01:10
  • Gary Rienl recounts the initial resistance from sports medicine professionals to his anti-RICE message.
  • He shares a story about a Major League Baseball player whose recovery improved after stopping the RICE protocol.
  • The success of this case led to wider acceptance of his methods among professional sports teams.
  • Gary emphasizes the importance of muscle activation over ice and rest for recovery.
• Scientific Evidence and Practical Applications 1:02:00
  • Gary Rienl explains the scientific basis for his methods, including the role of muscle activation in decongesting the area.
  • He describes specific muscle activation techniques, such as ankle pumps and stimulation pads.
  • The importance of maintaining muscle activation to prevent disuse atrophy and promote healing is discussed.
  • Gary highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to recovery, focusing on preventing further loss and regenerating damaged tissue.
• Impact on Professional Sports and Broader Adoption 1:02:16
  • Gary Rienl discusses the impact of his methods on professional sports, including Major League Baseball and other leagues.
  • He shares success stories from athletes who have benefited from his methods, including a rapid recovery from a quad tear.
  • The broader adoption of his methods in collegiate and military settings is mentioned.
  • Gary emphasizes the importance of making his information freely available to help more people understand and adopt his approach.
• Future Directions and Personal Commitment 1:02:31
  • Gary Rienl shares his plans for future work, including a new book on dealing with uncooperative doctors.
  • He stresses the importance of patients taking responsibility for their recovery and seeking out evidence-based methods.
  • Gary’s personal commitment to helping athletes and patients through his work is highlighted.
  • The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of continuing to challenge and improve medical protocols.

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